Selenium is an essential trace mineral that acts as an
antioxidant
—a substance that protects the body's cells against the effects of free radicals. Free radicals are normal by-products of metabolism, but they can cause cell damage.

What Does Selenium Do?

Selenium's functions include:

Acting as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase

People living in areas where the soil is very low in selenium, such as parts of China and Russia

People with gastrointestinal disorders, such as
Crohn's disease, that may decrease absorption of selenium

People receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN); however these people now routinely receive selenium supplementation

Can Too Much Selenium Be Toxic?

The government has set the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for selenium at 400 mcg for people ≥ 14 years of age. Selenium toxicity is rare in the United States. However, when it occurs, symptoms may include:

Garlicky breath

Hair loss

General weakness

Stomach upset

Irritability

White, blotchy nails

Mild nerve damage

Where Can I Find Selenium?

Major food sources of selenium include:

Brazil nuts—from selenium-rich soil

Shrimp

Crab meat

Tuna

Halibut

Noodles, enriched

Rice, brown

Chicken, pork, and beef

Whole wheat bread

How Can Selenium Affect My Health?

Cancer

Some studies that have examined selenium intakes and blood selenium levels effect on cancer. Some of these studies have suggested that people with greater intakes of selenium are less likely to develop
cancer
or to die from cancer if they already have it. However, other studies have not found selenium to be protective for cancers.
If selenium affects cancer, it is thought to be due to its action as an antioxidant. Also, it may be that selenium helps stimulate the immune system, making it better able to fight cancer.

Heart Disease

In population studies, people with low intakes of selenium have been found to have a greater incidence of heart disease, while those with higher selenium intakes have lower risks for heart disease.

Again, selenium's action as an antioxidant is likely the means by which it protects the heart. Selenium and other antioxidants help limit the oxidation of LDL ("bad") cholesterol. This oxidation leads to plaque build-up on artery walls, and subsequently, heart disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Free radicals can promote inflammation and destroy cartilage and collagen in joints, contributing to the pain of
rheumatoid arthritis.
As an antioxidant, selenium can help limit free radical production and therefore ease the pain of arthritis.

Tips for Increasing Your Selenium Intake

For a simple lunch, open a can of tuna and make a sandwich on whole wheat bread.

Choose fish or seafood for dinner 2-3 times per week.

Choose lean meats for entrees.

Select a breakfast cereal that is rich in nutrients. Check the nutrition facts label on the side.

Choose brown rice over white, and whole wheat or rye bread over white.

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